Phaedra clearly demonstrates the devastating consequences of the inability to control ones own emotion, and how poor judgment can unintentionally cause pain to others.
Kidnapped by King Theseus and forced into marriage at a young age, Phaedra is naive about love. Shortly after marriage Phaedra was introduced to Theseus' son Hippolytus. Phaedra took one look at Hippolytus was instantly overwhelmed with passion. Phaedra's attraction to Hippolytus was so powerful it consumed her ability to control and rationalize her emotions. Believing that Venus has cursed her, Phaedra prayed to the Goddess seeking an end to her misery. Phaedra's inability to control her emotions leads her to believe the only solution to end her suffering is to have Theseus exile his own son. However, once Hippolytus is banished, Phaedra's sorrow and regret only deepen her guilt.
Many years pass and although Phaedra has been a devoted wife, the love for Hippolytus always existed. After years in exile, Hippolytus returns to home. Phaedra's emotions resurface like an exploding volcano. An immediate rush of adrenaline puts Phaedra in a state of anxiety. Her depression and self-abuse increasingly grow; escalating to the point where Phaedra feels death is the only way to end her pain. Phaedra's negative attitude and eagerness to die prompt her nurse Oenone to question the source of her agony. Hesitant to divulge her secrets, Phaedra is persuaded by Oenone to confide in her. Emotionally vulnerable, Phaedra reluctantly discloses the truth to Oenone, who suggests Phaedra profess her love to Hippolytus.
Upon receiving news of her husband's death, Phaedra suddenly sparks with life as if the death of her husband has lifted the moral obligations that bind her guilt. Disillusioned with hope and unrealistic expectations Phaedra decides to profess her love to Hippolytus. Phaedra tells Hippolytus that his banishment was not done out of hatred, but rather to ease...